Each year, the BC Lupus Society hosts a full day symposium for patients, friends, family, and medical professionals to educate about the latest Lupus research. This year’s Annual Lupus Wellness & Education Symposium was no exception to the norm, it was a hugely successful event!

The Lupus Society President, Josie Bradley.

Living with chronic disease can make attending events much more difficult, leading to a lonely and isolating reality. Having the opportunity to come together as a supportive and encouraging community is like filling up your tank, it provides just the oomph you need to keep working towards a more healthy future. There is nothing quite like meeting someone you know “gets it” without the need to explain how you are feeling.

If you were unable to attend in person, the symposium is also video-conferenced throughout the province. The opportunity is open for anyone wishing to learn more about what Lupus is and how to successfully manage the disease.

Lectures were given by leading doctors who specialize in the field of Rheumatology. They shared information about what Lupus is and how it is treated, pregnancy considerations, chronic pain, and symptom management. There were also guest speakers who motivated with their personal family story and a LifeLabs sponsored clinical doctor who explained how to interpret general Lupus biochemical markers.

Whether you have been newly diagnosed or practically have a PhD in the subject, there is always information and inspiration to be gleaned.

My favourite piece of swag -- is it weird to love keychains?

Becoming a member of the BC Lupus Society allows for government funding, a charitable tax receipt, and the perk of receiving the quarterly Lupus Lighthouse newsletter. Head on over and become a member! bclupus.org

Did you miss this event? Stay ‘in the lupe’ on my events page. The big ones to look out for are the Lupus Gala in the spring, Walk for Lupus in the summer, and Lupus Symposium in the late fall. I would LOVE to have you join me at the next one!